BV is the most common vaginal infection in individuals with vaginas and it occurs when there is an overgrowth of certain “bad” bacteria in the vagina.
A health care provider will examine the vagina for signs of BV and take a sample of vaginal fluid to be examined under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Schedule the test when you are not on your period. Do not have sex, douche or use a tampon within 24 hours of your exam.
It depends on the lab used by your health care provider, but usually a couple of days to a week.